Americana/Folk: Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra
By Jacqueline Ott
With a number of different strings, hauntingly beautiful harmonies, and enough soul to wake the dead, Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra is one group you won’t want to miss. Hailing from California, their first album, Pray for Rain, was self-released in 2014. The band, Americana in feel with blues and folk inspired melodies, can either get you tapping your feet with songs like “Dempsey” or pausing to reflect and listen with songs like “Cold Canary Gaslight.” Then, hits like “Cinnamon tree” come on, and you’re lit up with horns while the ever present, beautiful mastered violin and double bass keep harmony with the rest of the album. This group, although wonderful for long road trips or for studying, is even better live, as they know how to both get and keep their crowd invested. Without the music playing in your ears, it’s almost impossible to describe the majesty that O’Reilly and crew bring to the table, so I implore you to check them out here or here or go to their show at Mississippi Studios on December 14th.
Electronic: Mr.FijiWiji
By Mitchell Tang
Mr.FijiWiji has been a favorite of mine for many years. He is a 21 year old producer based out of Pittsburg. Over the past year he has released 2 EP’s, each released on the record label, Monstercat. He has been able to create a sound that is truly his own. The music Mr.FijiWiji produces is mostly down-tempo and chill-step. His music will not make you jump up and down or be played at a rave, but every song is very personal and able to make you feel something inside. Mr.FijiWiji is able to take you on a journey every time. In all of his songs every note is packed with emotion. The melodies he creates are catchy and flow very well. The atmospheres he creates, oftentimes dark and sorrowful, are what make the songs amazing. On the production side he is able to create these songs with his synths that can punch hard or be smooth when needed. While the drums are not the driving force of the music they keep balance throughout the song and make it flow. Mr.FijiWiji’s song “Time To Say Goodbye” is a perfect example of his style. He is an artist that I highly recommend and I cannot wait for what Mr.FijiWiji has for us next.